If you were hit by a car while riding your bike in Tacoma, Washington, you may be entitled to compensation. A trusted Tacoma personal injury attorney can help you navigate the insurance process and fight for the full financial recovery you need to move forward.
Sears Injury Law has over 100 years of combined legal experience and has recovered more than $300 million for injured victims across Washington. We know how to handle complex claims and pursue justice for cyclists who were injured through no fault of their own.
Reach out today for a free consultation with a Tacoma bicycle accident attorney. We’ll explain your legal rights and options and help you understand what comes next.
Why Hire Sears Injury Law for Your Bicycle Accident Case in Tacoma, Washington?
Not every law firm is equipped to handle serious injury claims involving bicyclists. At Sears Injury Law, we have the experience, resources, and proven track record of success to take on insurance companies and win. We’re not just here to process paperwork; we’re here to advocate for you and maximize the amount of compensation you recover.
When you hire Sears Injury Law, you get:
- Over 100 years of combined experience handling personal injury claims in Washington
- More than $300 million recovered for accident victims across the state
- A dedicated legal team that will treat your case with the urgency and care it deserves
- Trial-ready representation in case your claim needs to go to court
- No fees unless we win compensation for you, so there’s no risk in getting started
From the moment you call us, you’ll know you have a firm that’s fully invested in your recovery on your side. Contact our Tacoma accident lawyers today for a free case review.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Tacoma, WA
Most bicycle crashes happen because a driver fails to exercise reasonable caution. In many cases, the motorist isn’t paying attention, doesn’t check their blind spot, or simply disregards the rights of the person riding a bike.
Some of the most common causes of bike accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Failing to yield when turning
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Opening a car door into a cyclist’s path (dooring)
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driving too close to the bike lane or shoulder
- Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs
No matter how the crash happened, our legal team can help you determine whether you have a valid claim.
What Damages Are Available to Bicycle Accident Victims in Washington State?
If you were hurt in a bicycle accident in Tacoma, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These include:
- Medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Damage to your bike or other personal property
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Punitive damages generally aren’t available in Washington State personal injury cases.
What if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Under Washington law, cyclists are not required to wear helmets, although it is strongly recommended. If you weren’t wearing one at the time of the crash, the insurance company may try to argue that you were partially at fault for your injuries.
If they succeed, Washington follows a “pure comparative negligence” framework that might come into play. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partly to blame, but your compensation will just be reduced in proportion to your level of fault. For example, if you were found 15% at fault, your damages would be reduced by 15%.
Our Tacoma bicycle accident attorneys know how to fight back against blame-shifting tactics and will work hard to keep fault where it belongs.
Contact Our Tacoma Bicycle Accident Lawyers Today
How an Attorney Can Help With Your Tacoma Bike Accident Case
Even a seemingly minor bike accident claim can become complicated quickly. The driver’s insurance company might deny responsibility or offer you far less than you’re owed. A lawyer can help prevent these issues from getting in the way of your recovery.
Your bicycle accident attorney in Tacoma can:
- Assess your injuries and estimate your claim’s full value
- Collect witness statements, police reports, and video footage
- Deal with insurers on your behalf
- File all paperwork accurately and on time
- Represent you in court if your case goes to trial
Most importantly, hiring a lawyer can reduce stress during a difficult time and improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bicycle Crash in Tacoma, Washington?
Depending on how the accident occurred, several parties could be held legally responsible, such as:
- A negligent driver who hit you
- A commercial employer if the driver was on the job
- A city or municipality that failed to maintain safe roads
- A manufacturer, if your bike or safety equipment had a defect
If you hire us, our Tacoma bicycle accident lawyers will carefully investigate your accident to identify every liable party. From there, we’ll aim to put as much money into your pocket as we can.
How Long Do I Have To File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in Washington?
Washington generally gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case will likely be dismissed, and you won’t be able to recover damages through the court system.
However, there are exceptions that can adjust this time limit in certain cases. It’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible so that you can protect your legal rights and file your claim on time.
Contact a Tacoma Bicycle Accident Attorney at Sears Injury Law Today
A bicycle crash can turn your life upside down, but we’re here to help you move forward as best as possible. With Sears Injury Law on your side, you’ll have a team of experienced and aggressive advocates fighting to get you the compensation you deserve.
We’ve recovered over $300 million for our clients and offer free consultations to help you understand your rights. If you hire us, you won’t pay anything unless we win your case.
Call today or call us at (253) 544-5553 to speak with a Tacoma bicycle accident lawyer and get the help you need.